A transmission bearing is a small yet crucial component that helps your gears spin smoothly by reducing friction within the transmission. But when it starts to wear out, your car makes sure you hear it — from a faint whine to a full-on knock.
Let’s decode what these transmission bearing noises mean, why they happen, and how safe it is to drive with a faulty one.
This Article Contains:
- 4 Common Types of Transmission Bearing Noises and Their Causes
- Can You Drive with a Bad Transmission Bearing?
- Should You Replace the Transmission Bearing Yourself?
- How Much Does a Transmission Bearing Replacement Cost?
- 4 Other Causes of Transmission Noises
- How to Prevent Transmission Issues
4 Common Types of Transmission Bearing Noises and Their Causes
Here are a few transmission bearing sounds you should look out for:
- Humming: As the bearing’s metal rollers or balls wear down, they create tiny pits or rough spots on the surface. When the shaft spins, especially at higher speeds, those rough areas vibrate, producing a steady humming or whining sound.
- Grinding: Damaged or pitted bearing surfaces can lead to direct metal-on-metal contact between the gears. The increased friction produces a harsh grinding noise whenever the gears are in motion.
- Knocking: Excessive play in the output shaft or differential bearings can cause gears and shafts to move abruptly, resulting in a heavy knocking sound during gear shifts or acceleration.
- Rumbling at idle: A worn pilot or release bearing that no longer spins smoothly can cause vibrations and a low rumbling noise while the engine idles. This issue is more prominent in manual transmission vehicles.
Wondering if it’s smart to take your car out for a spin with these red flags?
Let’s find out.
Can You Drive with a Bad Transmission Bearing?
No, you shouldn’t drive with transmission bearing issues.
A worn bearing doesn’t just make your car noisy with grinding or humming sounds; it also creates vibrations and rough shifts that only worsen with time. As the bearing wears down, it can overheat and throw internal transmission parts out of alignment, putting your gears and shafts at serious risk.
Ignore it, and that minor bearing issue can snowball into a complete transmission failure.
But before you grab your toolbox, here’s something to consider:
Should You Replace the Transmission Bearing Yourself?
No, replacing a transmission bearing isn’t a simple DIY job.
It involves working around multiple transmission components, like the transmission housing and shafts. In some cars, you’ll even need to work around the driveshaft or exhaust system just to reach it.
One small mistake can lead to bearing failure, gear misalignment, or severe transmission damage. That’s why it’s best to let a qualified mechanic handle the replacement.
Wondering what they’ll charge for it?
Read on to find out.
How Much Does a Transmission Bearing Replacement Cost?
Swapping out a transmission bearing can cost between $300 and $1,500.
This depends on the type of transmission bearing that needs replacement (input or pilot bearings), the vehicle’s model, and local labor charges.
Want to know more about transmission bearing costs?
Read our detailed breakdown of the transmission bearing cost and factors influencing it.
But remember, bearings aren’t the only noise-makers in your transmission.
4 Other Causes of Transmission Noises
Here are some other culprits that may be causing a noisy transmission:
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Worn or damaged gears
- Faulty torque converter
- Failing transmission pump or valve body
The good news?
Most of these problems are avoidable if you treat your transmission right.
How to Prevent Transmission Issues
Follow these simple tips to extend your transmission’s life:
- Schedule regular transmission fluid and filter checks, as recommended by the vehicle’s owner’s manual.
- Warm up your car before driving, as cold transmission fluid is thicker and doesn’t lubricate well.
- Avoid aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration, sudden stops, or towing heavy loads. These can strain gears and heat the transmission.
- Book routine cooling system maintenance to keep the system from overheating.
Let AutoNation Mobile Service Tune Out the Transmission Bearing Noise
When it comes to transmission bearings, silence is golden and completely achievable. All you need to do is stay on top of maintenance, and those small noises won’t snowball into big bills.
And if the noise’s already kicked in?
The pros at AutoNation Mobile Service can fix it for you.
Our skilled mechanics make car care easy and are available seven days a week. We also offer easy online booking, upfront pricing, and a 12-month, 12,000-mile repair warranty.
Contact us to hush that hum and get your transmission back in tune.